June 2, 2001, The Philippine Star, Four Hostages' Rescue 'Validates' All-Out Policy vs. Sayyaf - Palace,

June 2, 2001, The Philippine Star, Four Hostages' Rescue 'Validates' All-Out Policy vs. Sayyaf - Palace,

Manila, June 2, 2001 - (STAR) Malacañang today praised the "initial successes of the Armed Forces" against the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group and emphasized that the rescue of four of its 20 hostages "validate" the government's policy to wage an "uncompromising all-out war" against the bandits.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Rigoberto Tiglao said the "no ransom rule" against terrorists strengthened that policy.

Tiglao stressed there will be no letup in the military's offensive against the Abu Sayyaf until the bandits are "liquidated or until they surrender." He also made mention of the huge reward offered by the government to anyone who could give information leading to the neutralization of the bandits.

The Palace expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces, the Philippine National Police that helped in the operation, the media for their understanding of the news blackout imposed on the military operation, and the residents of Basilan and Sulu for their cooperation.